About Austin Ketamine Clinic
At the heart of Austin Ketamine Clinic lies a story of resilience, empathy, and unwavering dedication. Co-Founded by Jon Wolfe, a former rescue paramedic who personally battled and overcame PTSD through ketamine treatments, the clinic emerged from a profound desire to extend the same lifeline to others grappling with mental disorders. Jon’s journey through the intense world of emergency medicine, serving over 13 years with the elite Special Operations Team of Austin/Travis County EMS, not only honed his clinical expertise but also deepened his understanding and compassion for those afflicted by mental health challenges. In late 2019, alongside Lisa Plotkin, he embarked on a mission to create the Austin Ketamine Clinic, which opened its doors in January 2020, marking a new chapter in mental health therapy. At Austin Ketamine Clinic, Jon’s personal journey of healing fuels a passionate commitment to helping patients navigate their own paths to recovery, embodying a sanctuary of hope, empathy, and transformation.
Meet Our Talented Team
Our team at Austin Ketamine Clinic is composed of highly skilled and certified healthcare experts, each bringing years of specialized experience in administering ketamine treatments. Our medical staff are dedicated to providing safe and effective care, leveraging their extensive knowledge to support your journey towards wellness.
Milly
Forever In Our Hearts
At Austin Ketamine Clinic, we provide a comprehensive and patient-centered approach to ensure the safety, well-being, and positive outcomes for individuals seeking ketamine treatment. Here are key elements that our clinic offers:
Qualified and Experienced Staff:
We are staffed with qualified and experienced healthcare professionals, including licensed medical practitioners with decades of experience and who are knowledgeable about ketamine therapy.
Thorough Patient Assessment:
Before starting ketamine treatment, Austin Ketamine Clinic conducts a thorough assessment of each patient’s medical history, mental health condition, and overall health. This helps in determining the appropriateness of ketamine therapy for the individual.
Personalized Treatment Plans:
Tailored treatment plans that consider the unique needs and circumstances of each patient. One-size-fits-all approaches are generally not suitable for mental health treatments.
Education and Informed Consent:
Clear and thorough patient education about ketamine therapy, including potential risks, benefits, and alternatives. Informed consent is crucial, and patients should have the opportunity to ask questions and receive detailed information.
Safe and Comfortable Environment:
Our clinic provides a safe and comfortable environment for treatment sessions. This includes appropriate monitoring during the administration of ketamine and a calming atmosphere to enhance the therapeutic experience.
Monitoring and Support during Sessions:
Trained staff closely monitor patients during ketamine sessions to ensure safety and provide support if needed. This includes monitoring vital signs such as heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels, as well as observing for any adverse reactions or signs of distress. Additionally, staff are trained to provide emotional support and guidance to patients who may experience intense emotions or psychological effects during the treatment. This supportive environment helps patients feel safe and comfortable throughout the ketamine session, maximizing the potential therapeutic benefits of the treatment.
Follow-Up Care:
A commitment to follow-up care and ongoing support. After each treatment session, we will follow up to assess progress, address concerns, and make any necessary adjustments to the treatment plan.
Transparent Pricing and Policies:
Clear and transparent pricing for services, as well as a straightforward explanation of policies regarding appointments, cancellations, and any additional fees.
Ethical and Professional Standards:
Adherence to ethical and professional standards in the administration of ketamine therapy, including compliance with relevant laws and regulations. This also includes best practice standards and ethics recommended by The American Society of Ketamine Physicians, Psychotherapists, and Practitioners.
Continual Training and Education:
We are committed to ongoing training and education for staff to stay updated on the latest developments in ketamine therapy and mental health treatment.
Community and Peer Support:
Supportive community resources or peer support groups where patients can connect and share their experiences. This can contribute to a sense of community and understanding.
Outcome Monitoring and Research:
A commitment to monitoring treatment outcomes and, if possible, contributing to research efforts that advance the understanding of ketamine’s effectiveness for various mental health conditions.
Comfort
From the moment you walk through our doors, you’ll discover a sanctuary designed with your comfort and well-being in mind. Our space is more than just a clinic; it’s a retreat where you can relax, rejuvenate, and feel completely at ease. With cozy furnishings and a peaceful ambiance, we invite you to make yourself at home while we take care of the rest. Experience the difference where every detail is tailored for your utmost comfort, making your care experience uniquely personal and deeply restorative. Welcome to where healing begins – not just as our valued guest, but as part of our family.
Our Mission
Jon V. Wolfe
Co-founder, CEO, Licensed Paramedic
Jon and Lisa decided to create Austin Ketamine Clinic late 2019 and opened the clinic in January 2020. His background includes over 20 years in emergency medicine, mainly in the pre-hospital environment, where he worked on the elite Special Operations Team serving over 13 years with the City of Austin working for Austin/Travis County EMS. He has been involved in almost all aspects of business and combined with his clinical expertise, he provides patients with the highest level of service to achieve the most beneficial therapy possible. In 2018, Jon served as the Project Coordinator for the Annual Conference Debut for the American Society of Ketamine Physicians, as well as assisted with a research series on Ketamine Infusion Therapy for First Responders with Occupational Related PTSD. Jon also completed his Bachelor of Science in Emergency Medical Services and a Master’s of Public Administration in Emergency Management. Jon has specialized his academics around the mental health and wellness of first responders and now he has created a nonprofit organization called #PAINTING4PTSD in order to make ketamine therapy more accessible to those high risk populations such as military veterans and first responders.
Jensen Russell
PA-C and Provider
Jensen is a Board-Certified Physician Assistant through the National Certification Commission of Physician Assistants (NCCPA). He has an extensive medical background including family medicine and urgent care. He earned his Masters in Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS) from The University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston, Texas, where he graduated with a concentration in Global Health and with honors as an Area Health Education Centers (AHEC) scholar from his time working with underserved populations. During his time at UTMB, he also served as founder and president of Students Working Against Trafficking (SWAT). Originally from Houston, he went on to obtain his BS in Biology from Baylor University in Waco, Texas.
Jensen’s passion for ketamine and psychedelic medicine arose from his personal dedication to mental health and his direct experience with patients who felt like they had nowhere else to turn for their mental health concerns. He has seen what ketamine has done for many people with little hope. He empathizes with his patients and seeks the best plan of care for them, understanding that each person comes from a unique set of circumstances. Staying up to date on the most accurate research is critical to his patient care, but counseling and educating patients is what drives him.
When not caring for patients, the other important parts of his life including playing music (piano, guitar, singing), sports, spending time in nature, live music, his kitten, cooking, reading, meditation, and being around family and friends.
Elise Warner
Nurse Practitioner
Elise is a Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). She earned her Doctor of Nurse Practice degree from East Carolina University in Greenville, North Carolina, where she graduated Summa Cum Laude.
Elise has a diverse medical background, including cardiology, primary care, and pediatrics. Her passion for ketamine and psychedelic medicine began on her healing journey. Now, she looks forward to sharing the powerful healing potential of ketamine with her patients. She empowers and supports patients, helping them access healing from within themselves. Seeing patients respond positively to ketamine when years of other medications have failed amazes her every day. She dedicates much of her time to staying current on the latest research and protocols to ensure patient safety and enhance patient outcomes to treatment.
Eduardo "Lalo" Carillo
Ketamine Guide and NREMT-B (Part time while attending medical school)
I grew up in McAllen, a small border town in South Texas, and made my way to Austin, TX in 2018 to pursue a bachelor’s degree in Biology and Psychology at St. Edward’s University. Throughout my undergraduate journey, I took on various roles, including serving as a tutor for Molecular Genetics, being a teaching assistant for Cell Biology lab, and leading as a neuroscience research assistant.
Working as a medic at AKC has been an incredibly rewarding experience for me. This role allows me to apply my healthcare skills and integrate my academic knowledge to understand my patients on both molecular and experiential levels. As I prepare to apply to medical schools in the US, I find great fulfillment in the intersection of my academic pursuits and hands-on healthcare practice.
Beyond my professional endeavors, I find joy in bouldering, participating in marathons, immersing myself in painting, and being a fervent fan of stand-up comedy!
Shiree Flume
Psychiatrist and Supervising Physician
Dr. Shiree Flume, a Texas native, attended the University of Texas at Austin graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy. After practicing hospital pharmacy for 3 years she attended the University of Texas Southwestern Medical School in Dallas receiving her M.D. in 1985. She completed her internship and residency in psychiatry at the University of California Medical Center at San Francisco and the Langley Portner Neuropsychiatric Institute in San Francisco in 1989. After residency she and husband, Dr. David Flume, moved back to Austin where they have lived and practiced psychiatry since 1989.
Certifications and Memberships:
Board Certified in Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in 1991.
Texas Medical Association
Travis County Medical Society
Austin Psychiatric Society
Hospital Consulting Privileges:
University Medical Center at Brackenridge
Seton Shoal Creek Hospital
Seton medical Center
Lisa Plotkin
Co-Founder and Office Manger
Lisa is an experienced Physician Assistant with a BA in Psychology, and a Master of Medical Science from Nova Southeastern University. She has experience in rural medicine, family and emergency medicine, urgent care, nutrition and weight loss, and most recently, ketamine infusion therapy. She strongly believes in the importance of patient education, as well as integration of physical and mental health.
Princess Phoebe Bridgers Wolfe
Greeter and Certified Service Animal
Along with 5 other litter mates, Princess Phoebe was born on November 20, 2021. Her journey began with Austin Bulldog Rescue where she found her furever home with Jon and the family at Austin Ketamine Clinic. With Milly as her mentor, Phoebe quickly became a welcomed addition to the team. Phoebe has completed training as an emotional support and service canine. Phoebe is currently undergoing training to complete her Canine Support Specialist certification with Texas Task Force-1 to assist with disaster deployments for search and rescue/recovery.
Our Values
- Compassion: We approach every patient with empathy, understanding, and a commitment to their well-being.
- Integrity: Our clinic operates with the highest ethical standards, ensuring transparency and honesty in all aspects of our practice.
- Innovation: We stay at the forefront of medical advancements to provide our patients with the latest and most effective treatments available.